A human rights group has raised concerns over Nigeria’s dual legal system, warning that it undermines fairness, national unity, and the country’s commitment to secularism.
The group has launched a nationwide petition calling for amendments to the 1999 Constitution to guarantee legal equality for all citizens. The petition, which has already gathered thousands of signatures, will be submitted to the National Assembly to push for legislative reform.
Signed by Benson Sunday, Convener of the Initiative, the petition advocates for a single legal framework across the country.
“Nigeria is a secular, democratic republic. Our Constitution must reflect this by ensuring that all citizens are treated equally under one law,” the petition stated.
It highlighted that although the Constitution proclaims Nigeria as a secular state, it also permits the establishment of Sharia Courts of Appeal in certain states and the appointment of Islamic judges (Khadis), creating a separate legal system in 12 northern states.
“Our analysis of the Constitution shows that terms like ‘Sharia,’ ‘Islam,’ and ‘Grand Khadi’ appear repeatedly, injecting religious elements into our national legal framework. This raises concerns about fairness and inclusivity,” the petition added.
The group argued that the dual legal system marginalizes religious minorities and others who do not adhere to Islamic law. It warned that such a system could deepen divisions and weaken the principle of equality before the law.
“A unified legal system is vital in a diverse country like Nigeria. It ensures every citizen, regardless of faith or background, is treated equally,” the petition noted.
The petition calls for public dialogue and constitutional amendments to remove religiously exclusive provisions and reinforce Section 10 of the Constitution, which prohibits the adoption of any religion as a state religion.
“This is not an attack on any faith. It’s about ensuring our laws align with Nigeria’s founding principles of democracy and secularism,” the petition emphasised.
The campaign urges support from civil society, religious leaders, and policymakers to help shape a more inclusive and unified legal system for the country.
“We believe in a Nigeria where unity, justice, and equality prevail. This is a call for all Nigerians to come together and work towards a Constitution that truly reflects these values,” the petition concluded.
